By Alexey Sukachev
Murat Gassiev (25-0, 18 KOs) is diligently preparing for the second semifinal of the World Boxing Super Series, which is about to take place on February 3 in Sochi, Russia.
Gassiev, the IBF cruiserweight champion, faces fellow undefeated kayo artist Yunier Dorticos (22-0, 21 KOs), who holds the WBA version of the title. Despite being featured in one of the biggest fights this year in Russia, Gassiev doesn’t consider himself to be the most popular Russian fighter today.
“The most popular amongst fans, I think, is Sergey Kovalev. I take his achievements into account. Both me and Dmitry Bivol are eager not to let Russian fans down”, said Gassiev to RIA Novosti.
Gassiev, 24, acquired his belt with a split decision win over veteran champion Denis Lebedev in December 2016. The Ossetian has got just one of his opponent’s belts that time, with the Super WBA title still belonging to Lebedev (30-2, 22 KOs). Gassiev is ready to tangle with the 38-year old once more to prove he is the better of the two.
“His team, as I got to know, had a chance to move on with a rematch, just didn’t want to pursue it for reasons I do not know. What I know for sure is that the reason isn’t called Murat Gassiev. If there’s any desire to arrange such a fight I will not create any obstacles”, commented the IBF champion.
“If Denis thinks there’s some unfinished business – well, I’m ready. However, it can only come to fruition once the World Boxing Super Series is complete. Had I lost that fight [against Lebedev], it wouldn’t have changed anything. Just the road [to the title] would have been longer. But there is nothing that can prevent me from going this road”.
IN OTHER NEWS: Meanwhile, Denis Lebedev’s family welcomed an addition, as Denis’ wife gave a birth to his son. Lebedev is also a proud father of three daughters, and he also brings up the son of his late brother.
